Crossword Genius

Even very alarmed, agitated?! (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

leery

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'even very alarmed agitated?' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'even very alarmed agitated?' is the wordplay.
'even' indicates alternate letters (even-numbered letters are used).
'agitated?' indicates anagramming the letters (I've seen 'agitated' mean this).
'very'+'alarmed'='veryalarmed'
The alternating letters of 'veryalarmed' are 'eylre'.
'eylre' with letters rearranged gives 'LEERY'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for leery that I've seen before include "Cunning - wary" , "Cautious due to suspicions" , "In slang, wary or suspicious - reely!" , "Shy" , "Suspiciously cautious" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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